A Practice with a Holistic Approach to Dentistry

What is Holistic Dentistry?

At Melbourne’s Smile Solutions we take a holistic attitude to dentistry – a comprehensive approach to oral care, with preventative measures to ensure optimum oral health and the elimination of environmental toxins from the dental process. Holistic dentistry revolves around the understanding that the body should be treated as a whole and any one change has the ability to impact the entire unit.

We offer a comprehensive range of treatments utilising the latest technology, with an emphasis on providing the most tranquil setting for our patients.

The Principles of Holistic Dentistry

In dentistry we are often introducing foreign elements – including titanium, ceramics and resins – into the mouth, so we have to be certain about their long-term viability within the body. Biocompatible materials are not toxic and do not interfere with normal bodily functions. The main emphasis of holistic dentistry is on the use of non-toxic materials such as porcelain to protect your teeth.

The basic principles of holistic dentistry, as defined by the Holistic Dental Network, are:

Proper nutrition for prevention and reversal of degenerative dental disease

Benefits of Adopting a Holistic Approach

Conventional dentistry generally deals solely with the head and neck region, with the major focus being on that of the overall cavity (teeth, gums and associated hard and soft tissues), whereas holistic dentistry deals with the little-recognised impact of oral health on the overall physical health of the individual.

Our Holistic Treatments

Some of the holistic treatments we provide at Smile Solutions include Cerec porcelain fillings and laser dentistry.

Cerec Porcelain Fillings

Cerec porcelain fillings have become a popular option for patients who want to replace their old silver-coloured fillings with long lasting white porcelain restorations. Amalgam, which was the standard filling material for many years, consists of a mixture of mercury, silver and a number of other metals. A great deal of research indicates that mercury – which is a heavy metal – is toxic to the body and to our environment.

Many patients now request removal of their old amalgam fillings on aesthetic and health grounds. The safe biocompatible alternatives to amalgam fillings include composite resin and ceramic (porcelain) restorations. Porcelain is, in our opinion, aesthetically superior in that the fillings look natural and mimic tooth material beautifully. Ceramic porcelain restorations also have higher strength and longevity than white resin fillings, which are principally plastic.

We utilise the latest technology with the Cerec system, which allows the porcelain fillings to be milled, inserted and completed in one visit. This is time-efficient and convenient for the patient, and it reduces the need to double up on local anaesthetic injections.

Laser Dentistry

Laser dentistry is perhaps the most exciting development for phobic patients whose dental needs make them eligible for laser use. Laser dentistry is available for some small fillings. Gum surgery is also virtually pain-free with laser treatment and you are likely to heal a lot faster than other conventional surgery. In addition, diagnostic lasers are used to aid us in detecting dental decay, reducing the likelihood of incorrect diagnosis.

Technologically Superior Equipment and Systems

We utilise technologically superior equipment and systems for our clients’ benefit. Our digital X-ray systems in each of our 25 operating suites and our digital OPG system are also more patient-friendly, requiring approximately one third of the radiation doses of some conventional X-rays. The X-ray images are available immediately, meaning patients and clinicians do not have to wait.

A Natural Environment

We have put a lot of effort into making our practice a calm and serene space within the iconic Manchester Unity Building. To create the ideal ambience, we offer ample natural light, beautiful surrounds, soft music, essential aromatherapy oils, and the soothing powers of water in the form of water features.

The ambience of the Smile Solutions practice is topped off by the mood of our team. Patients often comment that this positive energy is palpable the moment you enter the space.

Why Choose Smile Solutions

Our team at Smile Solutions includes dental hygienists, general dentists and dental board-registered specialists, all of whom understand how important your dental health is to your overall health. We have created a calming environment so our patients can be at ease while they receive their dental care in peaceful surrounds.